Macedonia year 1991 / 1995 – Red Cross postage stamps MNH lot

Macedonia year 1991 / 1995 – Red Cross postage stamps MNH lot

Macedonia (now North Macedonia) issued several Red Cross postage stamps between 1991 and 1995 as part of their early independent postal history. Here’s an overview of these issues:

1992 Red Cross Week:

• First Red Cross stamps issued by independent Macedonia
• Set of two stamps
• Depicted the Red Cross symbol and medical/humanitarian themes

1993 Red Cross Week:

• Another set commemorating the annual Red Cross Week
• Usually issued in May to coincide with World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day (May 8)

1994 Red Cross Week:

• Continued the annual tradition of Red Cross commemorative stamps
• Likely featured designs related to Red Cross activities or symbols

1995 Red Cross Week:

• Part of the ongoing series of annual Red Cross stamps

Key Points:

1. Design Themes: Often included the Red Cross symbol, medical imagery, or depictions of humanitarian aid
2. Semi-Postal Nature: These were typically issued as semi-postal stamps, with a surcharge going to the Red Cross
3. Printing: Likely produced using offset lithography, though this should be verified in specialized catalogs
4. Denominations: Generally included lower values for domestic mail and higher values for international postage
5. Collecting Interest:
   • Popular among topical collectors focusing on Red Cross or medical themes
   • Also sought after by collectors specializing in the Balkans or newly independent states
6. Historical Context: These early issues reflected Macedonia’s efforts to establish its postal identity after independence and its commitment to international humanitarian organizations
7. Varieties: As with many issues from this period in the Balkans, there might be printing varieties or errors due to the challenges of establishing new postal administrations

These Red Cross stamps from Macedonia’s early years of independence are interesting both philatelically and historically, reflecting the country’s transition and its participation in international humanitarian efforts.